Dogs DIE in hot cars
With temperatures soaring, it is vital to take care of our animals. And this means paying particular attention to the wellbeing of our livestock, wildlife and pets. There are always animals who suffer as a result of human thoughtlessness, arrogance and sheer stupidity, and sadly one scenario is dogs dying in hot cars. A car can become as hot as an oven very quickly - even if it doesn't feel that warm. When it's 22 degrees ouside, the temperature in a car can reach 47 degrees in an hour. That's unbearable. Dogs can't wind the window down, open the car door or get themselves more water. They are trapped. Conservatories and caravans or motor homes can equally be death traps. What to do if you find a dog in a car on a hot day Call 999 (the police are sadly used to getting such calls) - the RSPCA may not be able to get to you as quickly and may not have officers available in the area. In any case, the RSPCA have no powers of entry and would still need police assistance to get the dog out which could take more time. There is information on the RSPCA's website, with information about what to do if you find a dog in a car on a hot day, including advice for if you think you need to break into the car to get the dog out - this could be a criminal act, so there are tips for how to approach such an action. Under the Animal Welfare Act, all owners have a duty of care towards their animals. This includes preventing suffering, and not exposing them to extremes of temperature. If a dog is left on a warm day and suffers, the owners could be prosecuted. | You've seen a dog in a car on a hot day. Ask the Police RSPCA |
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